1997 Honda Civic vs. 2005 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Honda Civic would be higher. At 2,655 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (170 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1997 Honda Civic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1997 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 306 kg more than 1997 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (245 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda Civic. (174 Nm). This means 2005 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda Civic | 2005 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Honda | Hyundai |
| Model | Civic | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1832 cc | 2655 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
